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Master of Information Technology

Australia's #1 engineering & technology faculty
You have reached the maximum of 6 degrees.
Career opportunities in information technology are evolving rapidly and remain in high demand. With the Master of Information Technology at UNSW, you’ll study at the forefront of the field and graduate with a future-focused degree that sets you apart in a competitive job market.
Commencing Terms
Term 1, 2 & 3
Duration
2 Year(s)
Delivery Mode
Face-to-face (includes blended)
Campus
Kensington
Codes
Program code 8543
CRICOS code 061294J
Entry Requirements
View all admission criteria
Fees
Commonwealth Supported Places are available for this program
2026 Indicative CSP first year fee
$9,500*
2026 Indicative CSP fee to complete degree
$19,000*

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Overview

The UNSW Master of Information Technology is a two-year full-time postgraduate degree that prepares you to make a difference through technology. You’ll be taught by world-class researchers and gain a broad IT education, regardless of your level of computing experience. 

Choose from a wide range of core courses or focus on up to two specialisations. Either way, this program opens doors to in-demand roles across the IT industry. To give you an indication of demand, Cyber Security Analyst roles are projected to grow by 38.9% over the next five years, alongside growth in Software Architects (27.0%), IT Technicians (24.6%) and IT Project Managers (17.7%) (Seek Australia, 2026). 

Organisations worldwide are built on information technology and this master’s degree places you at the forefront of keeping systems running smoothly – enabling individuals, industries and businesses to work more efficiently and productively. You’ll graduate ready to make an impact in this fast-evolving field. 

Key features

Build in-demand expertise with flexible specialisations
Develop specialised knowledge in up to two areas aligned to your goals. Choose from five contemporary specialisations: Artificial IntelligenceDatabase SystemsCyber Security EngineeringInformation Technology and Internetworking

Graduate with a professionally recognised qualification 
Earn a degree accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), the peak body for Australia’s ICT industry with over 47,000 members. 

Learn at the cutting-edge of computing
Study in a research-intensive environment that combines fundamental theory with the latest advances in computing and information processing. Graduate ready to apply current practices and contribute to real-world innovation. 

Why study at UNSW?

Study at Australia’s #1 Engineering School
UNSW Engineering is ranked #1 in Australia for Engineering and Technology and UNSW’s School of Computer Science & Engineering is ranked #5 in Australia for Computer Science and IT (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026). Learn from world-renowned academics working at the forefront of IT education in Australia. 

Leverage powerful industry partnerships
We leverage our strong industry ties to improve our internationally acclaimed research and teaching to ensure you gain the best education. With industry partners including leading companies such as Atlassian, Commonwealth Bank, Google, Honeywell, Microsoft and WiseTech Global, you’re in good company.  

Become one of Australia’s most employable graduates
Take your career to the next level. UNSW is known for its graduate employability, with UNSW awarded the Most Employable students for seven years in a row (AFR Top 100 Future Leaders & Graduate Employers Awards, 2020–2026). 

 

Program Code
8543
CRICOS Code
061294J
Campus
Kensington
Total Units of Credit (UOC)
96

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Entry requirements

UNSW provides two entry points to the Master of IT depending on your cognate background.  This provides a structured and supportive option for students with a non-cognate background, while enabling students with cognate backgrounds earlier flexibility in their course selection.  Both entry points equate to the same duration of 2 years (96 UoC), and differ only in the order and structure of core foundation courses.   

*Note: while a background in maths is not required for either entry, it is strongly recommended for all Master of IT students. 

Students with a cognate background:

Admissions to the standard 2-year program requires:

  • A bachelor degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in a cognate discipline with a minimum weighted average mark of 65%*. 

Cognate disciplines

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Deep learning
  • Machine Learning
  • Mechatronics
  • Autonomous systems
  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology
  • Software Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science and Statistics
  • Data Analytics
  • Database management
  • Internet of Things
  • Network Engineering
  • Remote Sensing
  • Electronic Information
  • Communication Technology
  • Network Security
  • Cyber Security
  • Information Security
  • Management Information Systems
  • Technology
  • Engineering

 

Students with a non-cognate background:

  • Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of IT pathway.

Admissions require:

·       A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7  equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.

Successful applicants will be offered entry to the Master of Information Technology via the Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of Information Technology pathway. Students can articulate to the Master of Information Technology after passing 18 UOC of foundational courses. The total study duration is the same as the entry point for students with a cognate background (2 years/ 96 UoC). There is no separate application required for this pathway, applicants with non-cognate backgrounds must apply for the Master of Information Technology to be considered for this entry as a packaged offer. 

  • Graduate Certificate in Computing 

Admissions requires the following:

·       A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.

After successful completion of four courses students have two options: Graduate from the Graduate Certificate; OR Prior to graduation, apply to articulate to the Graduate Diploma or Master of Information Technology with credit for the completed courses.

Students should pay careful attention when selecting their Graduate Certificate courses to ensure that they align with the requirements for the major of their preference if they intend on articulating into the Graduate Diploma or Master of Information Technology.

There are no Commonwealth Supported Places available for the Graduate Certificate in Computing, if you intend on articulating into the Master of Information Technology a separate application will be required on the completion of the Graduate Certificate program. 

*Qualifications from non-211 Chinese Universities will require a 70% average

Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)

UNSW recognises that many students have professional experience or relevant previous studies. If you have worked in a relevant industry or have relevant previous study experience, you may be eligible for credit points that would enable you to complete your Master of Information Technology in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on your previous study and experience.

  •  A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.

    Cognate disciplines

    • Computer Science
    • Information Technology
    • Software Engineering
    • Computer Engineering

     

  • A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a Cognate discipline.

    Cognate disciplines

    • Computer Science
    • Information Technology
    • Software Engineering
    • Computer Engineering

     

Admission pathways

5543 Information Technology, 7543 Computing

English language requirements

 

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • English language tests and university English courses
  • Prior study in the medium of English
  • Other qualifications

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page. 

UNSW provides two entry points to the Master of IT depending on your cognate background.  This provides a structured and supportive option for students with a non-cognate background, while enabling students with cognate backgrounds earlier flexibility in their course selection.  Both entry points equate to the same duration of 2 years (96 UoC), and differ only in the order and structure of core foundation courses.   

*Note: while a background in maths is not required for either entry, it is strongly recommended for all Master of IT students. 

Students with a cognate background:

Admissions to the standard 2-year program requires:

  • A bachelor degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) in a cognate discipline with a minimum weighted average mark of 65%*. 

Cognate disciplines

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Deep learning
  • Machine Learning
  • Mechatronics
  • Autonomous systems
  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology
  • Software Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science and Statistics
  • Data Analytics
  • Database management
  • Internet of Things
  • Network Engineering
  • Remote Sensing
  • Electronic Information
  • Communication Technology
  • Network Security
  • Cyber Security
  • Information Security
  • Management Information Systems
  • Technology
  • Engineering

 

Students with a non-cognate background:

  • Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of IT pathway.

Admissions requires the following:

·       A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7  equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum 65% average*.

Successful applicants will be offered entry to the Master of Information Technology via the Graduate Certificate in Information Technology/Master of Information Technology pathway. Students can articulate to the Master of Information Technology after passing 18 UOC of foundational courses. The total study duration is the same as the entry point for students with a cognate background (2 years/ 96 UoC). There is no separate application required for this pathway, applicants with non-cognate backgrounds must apply for the Master of Information Technology to be considered for this entry as a packaged offer. 

Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)

UNSW recognises that many students have professional experience or relevant previous studies. If you have worked in a relevant industry or have relevant previous study experience, you may be eligible for credit points that would enable you to complete your Master of Information Technology in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on your previous study and experience.

  •  A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.

    Cognate disciplines

    • Computer Science
    • Information Technology
    • Software Engineering
    • Computer Engineering

     

  • A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a Cognate discipline.

    Cognate disciplines

    • Computer Science
    • Information Technology
    • Software Engineering
    • Computer Engineering

     

Admission pathways

5543 Information Technology, 7543 Computing

English language requirements


You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • English language tests and university English courses
  • Prior study in the medium of English
  • Other qualifications

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page. 

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

What will I study?

Program structure

The UNSW Master of Information Technology is a two-year program designed for students seeking an IT qualification. Whether you have a background in computing or no prior computing experience, this program is open to you. 

Over two years of full-time study, you’ll gain a broad-based IT education through a range of core courses, alongside specialised knowledge in up to two focus areas. At the end of your degree, you can complete a capstone or research-based project. 

Full program structure

Degree structures can vary depending on your specialisation/s, the number of courses you choose and timetabling. 

To give you an indication of what your program may look like, here is an example:

Example structure

First year

In your first year, you’ll study a range of core courses to learn the fundamentals of Information Technology to feed into the rest of your degree. Core courses include:

  • Principles of Programming
  • Data Structures & Algorithms
  • Database Systems
  • Computer Networks & Applications
  • Project Management 

You’ll also start taking courses from your selected specialisation/s. 

Second year

In your second year, you’ll take the remaining courses from your selected specialisation/s. These courses will be complemented by a range of computing and non-computing electives.

At the end of your degree, you’ll also have the choice to complete an Information Technology Project or a substantial two-part research project. 

For more information on what you’ll study within the Master of Information Technology, please visit the Handbook. 

Future careers

IT graduates are in high-demand in Australia, with strong growth projected across a range of roles over the next five years. Cyber Security Analyst roles are projected to grow by 38.9% with average salaries of around $110,000, while Software Architect roles are projected to grow by 27.0% and command average salaries of around $190,000 (Seek Australia, 2026). These are just two examples – demand for skilled IT professionals is high throughout the sector. 

A Master of Information Technology from UNSW prepares you to step into these roles with confidence. Through strong industry partnerships – including organisations such as Accenture and the Australian Government Department of Defence – and a global alumni network, you’ll build the connections and experience to move into high-growth careers. 

Potential careers 

  • Cybersecurity engineer
  • Cybersecurity specialist
  • Data scientist
  • Information systems (IS)
  • Information systems manager
  • IT project manager
  • IT security consultant
  • IT security manager
  • Network engineer
  • Software architect
  • Software developer
  • Software engineer
  • Systems administration
  • Systems analyst
  • UI/UX designer

Accreditation

This program is accredited with the Australian Computer Society at the level of Professional.

Double degrees

Set yourself apart by combining your Master of Information Technology with broad business skills in our Master of Information Technology/Master of Commerce dual master’s degree. 

The program was designed in direct response to both industry and student demand for marrying greater technical skills with business and managerial acumen. 

You'll learn the foundational skills and knowledge that will enable you to present and apply technical solutions across business environments and empower you to take on a more impactful role – both managerial and technical – in both the IT and business industries. 

Gain access to a strong pool of career opportunities with the broad expertise to pursue cutting edge solutions and maximise social impact, whatever your chosen field.  

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.

Ready to start your application?

For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

This high-demand program is part of UNSW’s Grouped Offer Rounds. We assess and rank applicants who meet minimum entry requirements, then issue offers based on academic merit and program capacity within each round. UNSW uses a quota system to ensure optimal teaching and learning quality and reserves the right to adjust application and acceptance deadlines to maintain these quotas. For details, visit the international admissions information page.

Ready to start your application?

Fees & Scholarships

Commonwealth Supported Place

2026 Indicative CSP First Year Fee
$9,500*
2026 Indicative CSP Fee to Complete Degree
$19,000*

There are a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) available for this degree/program. Your eligibility to receive a CSP will be automatically assessed when you apply, please ensure you preference the CSP code in UAC to be considered. Start your postgraduate application today with our guide on how to apply. 

Please note that eligibility for Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) is competitive, with places awarded based on academic merit. To find out more about Commonwealth Supported Places visit Postgraduate Commonwealth Support.

Commonwealth Study Assistance such as Austudy, and Youth Allowance is available for some master’s degrees. For the most up-to-date information and list of degrees visit UNSW Current Student Financial Support.

2026 Indicative First Year Full Fee
$45,000*
2026 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree
$92,500*

*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.

Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the degree/program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).

You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

2026 Indicative First Year Fee
$63,000*
2026 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree
$130,500*

*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.

The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average using historical student enrolment patterns for each program, which may change every year. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year you enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

Indicative first year fees are for tuition only. Indicative fees to complete the degree/program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year and have been calculated based on percentage increase for every year of the degree/program, noting that actual fee increase may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Other fees and charges are not included. To find out more about other costs for international students, visit UNSW International

Scholarships


At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.

Featured scholarship

The UNSW Women in Engineering Research Scholarship was established to assist women of high academic achievement with an interest in a research and/or an academic career in engineering. UNSW Engineering offers two Women in Engineering Top-up Scholarships every semester. 


Progress starts here – at a world-leading university 

Top 20 Worldwide

​UNSW is ranked #20 university in the world
 

QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026

Most Employable Graduates

Winner of the AFR Most Employable University Award seven years in a row

AFR Top100 Future Leaders & Graduate Employers Awards, 2020–2026

Australia's #1 for Innovation

Highest number of startups and spinouts from university-developed tech

SCOPR report, 2024

I love that everything in the world is being engineered by somebody.
Engineering alumni Rachel Mcvittie

Rachel McVittie

Engineering Alumni